Spanish Rice with Ham

Spanish Rice with Ham Recipe - Authentic Flavors of Spain

Region / culture: Spain | Servings: 4

Introduction

Spanish Rice with Ham is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines the bold flavors of Spanish cuisine with the comforting elements of ham. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, as it is easy to prepare and full of delicious ingredients.

History

Spanish Rice with Ham is a popular dish that has its roots in Spanish cuisine. The combination of rice, tomatoes, peppers, and ham is a classic one that has been enjoyed for generations. This dish has evolved over time to include different variations and ingredients, but the basic concept remains the same.

Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil
8 oz (227 g) medium shrimp, shelled and deveined
0.5 tsp dried oregano
1 sweet red pepper, finely chopped
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 cup uncooked texmati rice
1 (14.5 oz (411 g)) can fat-free reduced-sodium chicken broth
1 (14.5 oz (411 g)) can no-salt-added stewed tomatoes
0.5 tsp salt
0.13 tsp red pepper flakes
1 cup cubed ham, leftover if you have some
2 tbsp chopped cilantro

How to prepare

Heat 1 tsp of oil in a large skillet.
Add shrimp and 0.25 tsp of oregano; sauté until it is just cooked, about 1–2 minutes.
Remove the shrimp.
Heat the remaining 2 tsp of oil in the same skillet.
Add sweet red pepper, onion, and garlic.
Sauté for 3 minutes until just tender.
Stir in rice, the remaining 0.25 tsp of oregano, and broth.
Cover and simmer for 15 minutes.
Stir in tomatoes with juice, salt, pepper flakes, and ham.
Cover and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Return the shrimp to the skillet; heat through, about 1 minute.
Sprinkle with cilantro.

Variations

Add diced tomatoes or green peas for extra flavor and color.
Use chorizo or bacon instead of ham for a different twist on the dish.
Top with grated cheese before serving for a cheesy finish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to devein the shrimp properly to avoid any unpleasant textures in the dish.

- Use leftover ham for added flavor, but feel free to use fresh ham if that's what you have on hand.

- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your spice preference.

- Be sure to stir the rice occasionally while simmering to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Spanish Rice with Ham with a side of fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also pair it with a glass of Spanish red wine for a truly authentic experience.

Cooking Techniques

Sauté the shrimp separately to ensure they are cooked perfectly.

- Simmer the rice slowly to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use brown rice or quinoa instead of texmati rice for a healthier option.

- Substitute chicken or tofu for the shrimp for a different protein source.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook. This will save you time and make the cooking process smoother.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Spanish Rice with Ham in a large serving dish and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for a pop of color. You can also sprinkle some paprika on top for added flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Spanish Rice with Ham with a side of garlic bread or crusty bread for a complete meal. You can also serve it with a side of Spanish olives for a true taste of Spain.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

310

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 38g

- Dietary Fiber: 2g

- Sugars: 3g

Fats

- Total Fat: 8g

- Saturated Fat: 2g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 18g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 15%

- Vitamin C: 45%

- Calcium: 6%

- Iron: 10%

Alergens

Contains shellfish (shrimp) and pork (ham)

Summary

Spanish Rice with Ham is a well-balanced dish that provides a good amount of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious meal option.

Summary

Spanish Rice with Ham is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its bold flavors and nutritious ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I knew it was something special. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Maria in her cozy kitchen. As I entered her home, the intoxicating aroma of spices and herbs filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation. Maria greeted me with a smile and handed me a glass of refreshing lemonade before revealing the recipe that would soon become one of my favorites - Spanish Rice with Ham.

Maria explained that the recipe had been passed down through generations in her family, originating from her great-grandmother who hailed from Spain. She had learned how to make it from her mother, who had learned it from her grandmother, and so on. Each generation had added its own personal touch, creating a dish that was truly unique and delicious.

As Maria began to prepare the ingredients, I watched in awe as she effortlessly chopped onions, peppers, and garlic with precision and skill. She sautéed them in a pan until they were caramelized and fragrant, filling the kitchen with an irresistible scent. Next, she added diced tomatoes, paprika, and a pinch of saffron, stirring them together to create a rich and flavorful base for the rice.

I could tell that Maria had a deep love and appreciation for cooking, as she carefully measured out the rice and added it to the pan, along with chicken broth and a generous amount of ham. She explained that the key to this recipe was to let the rice simmer slowly, allowing it to absorb all the flavors and become tender and fluffy.

As the rice cooked, Maria and I chatted about our shared love for food and the joy of sharing meals with loved ones. She told me stories of her family gatherings where this dish was always a hit, and how her children had grown up eating it and had now passed it on to their own children.

Finally, after letting the rice simmer for about 20 minutes, Maria lifted the lid of the pan to reveal a steaming, fragrant dish that looked absolutely mouthwatering. She garnished it with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon, adding a bright and zesty finish to the dish.

As we sat down to enjoy the Spanish Rice with Ham, I took my first bite and was immediately transported to a world of bold flavors and comforting textures. The rice was perfectly cooked, each grain infused with the smoky flavor of the ham and the warmth of the spices. It was a dish that spoke of tradition and love, a recipe that had stood the test of time and brought joy to generations.

As I savored each bite, I couldn't help but feel grateful for Maria's generosity in sharing this precious recipe with me. I knew that I would cherish it forever, passing it down to my own family and friends, just as Maria had done with hers.

And so, as the sun began to set and the day drew to a close, I left Maria's home with a full belly and a heart full of gratitude. The memory of that delicious Spanish Rice with Ham would stay with me forever, a reminder of the power of food to connect us to our past and bring us together in love and joy.